TABLE OF CONTENTS. The President s Social Contract with the People. Message: Secretary Imelda M. Nicolas

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3 TABLE OF CONTENTS The President s Social Contract with the People Message: Secretary Imelda M. Nicolas i ii The CFO: Vision, Mission and Ten-Point Goals 1 Clientele of CFO 6 About the Diaspora to Development (D2D) Program 7 Regular Programs and Services Pre-Departure Registration and Orientation Seminars 10 Community Education Program 11 Philippine Schools Overseas 11 Lakbay-Aral sa Pilipinas 12 Exchange Visitor Program 12 Recognition of Overseas Filipinos 13 New Programs and Initiatives Global Summit of Filipinos in the Diaspora 14 Overseas Filipinos Remittances for Development 15 Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking Advocacy and Communications Committee 15 Building a Coordinated Reintegration Framework for Overseas Filipinos 16 Information Systems Strategic Plan Migration Data 17 Migration and Development-Related Provisions in the Philippine Development Plan 18 Philippine Laws and Policies Affective Overseas Filipinos Migrant Workers and Other Overseas Filipinos Act 31 Overseas Absentee Voting Act 32 Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition Act 32 Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act 33 Balikbayan Law 33 Other Government Programs and Services for Overseas Filipinos Social Security System 34 Pag-IBIG Overseas Program 35 Medicare (PhilHealth) 36 Investment and Business Opportunities 36 The New DOT Initiative: Decade of the Balikbayan 37 DIRECTORY 37

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5 A SOCIAL CONTRACT WITH THE FILIPINO PEOPLE A Commitment to Transformational Leadership H.E. BENIGNO S. AQUINO III President of the Republic of the Philippines 16-Point PLATFORM OF GOVERNMENT POINT No. 10 which is migration-related: x x x x From a government that treats its people as an export commodity and a means to earn foreign exchange, disregarding the social cost to Filipino families to a government that creates jobs at home, so that working abroad will be a choice rather than a necessity, and when its citizens do choose to become OFWs, their welfare and protection will still be the government s priority. CFOPRIMER i

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7 A MESSAGE FROM THE SECRETARY Today, 214 million international migrants live or work outside their country of birth. With the increased globalization, the world is experiencing a phenomenally dynamic movement of people. The Philippines is part of this globality. We have approximately nine million Filipinos in more than 200 countries and territories, 47 percent of whom are permanent residents of other countries and 45 percent are overseas Filipino workers (OFW) while 8 percent are irregular or undocumented migrants. As we envision a community of well-respected and proudly competitive Filipinos overseas who contribute significantly to the productivity and well-being of the countries where they reside or work while maintaining strong political, economic, and cultural ties with the Philippines, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) is pleased to publish a primer for Filipinos overseas who need current, comprehensive and accurate information on the opportunities, services and programs available for them especially from the Philippine Government. This primer likewise provides concise information on CFO and its programs related to migration and development. It serves as an important reference on the CFO s flagship program Diaspora to Development. The D2D program is composed of 10 areas of engagement in which Filipinos in the diaspora can become development partners of government, civil society organizations or the private sector. I thank all the various agencies and groups for their contributions to this primer. I laud and salute all our Filipinos overseas who play a key role in Philippine progress and development. You are, indeed, the true wealth of our nation. Mabuhay! SECRETARY IMELDA M. NICOLAS Chairperson CFOPRIMER ii

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9 THE COMMISSION ON FILIPINOS OVERSEAS Established on 16 June 1980 through Batas Pambansa 79, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) is an agency of the Philippine government under the Office of the President tasked to promote and uphold the interests, rights and welfare of overseas Filipinos, and strengthen their ties with the Motherland. VISION The Commission on Filipinos Overseas envisions a community of well-respected and proudly competitive Filipinos overseas who contribute significantly to the productivity and well-being of the countries where they reside or work while maintaining strong political, economic, and cultural ties with the Philippines. MISSION To be the Philippines premier institution in promoting policies, programs and projects with Migration and Development as the framework for the strengthening and empowerment of the community of Filipinos overseas. CFOPRIMER 1

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11 TEN-POINT (10) GOALS, Policy Advocacy 1. To advocate for coherent, coordinated and clear development policies to be mainstreamed in the policy-making process of government: on international migration, its cost-benefit implications and the need for both national and local governments to maximize migration s gains while minimizing its socio-economic costs; that while international migration is a reality, government must create an environment that would make migration an option rather than a matter of necessity; and that the government s primary responsibility remains focused on sustainable, integrated, equitable, nation-wide development taking into consideration the country s economic, political and social structural problems and issues especially in relation to employment, poverty alleviation, equitable distribution of wealth and the benefit of development, and improvement of all its citizens quality of life. 2. To support and strengthen a favorable rights-based policy environment for the promotion and protection of rights, welfare and status of overseas Filipinos; to assist in the formulation and implementation of policies and programs relevant to their rights, welfare and status. Socio-economic Development 3. To develop and implement, in coordination with and with the support of other government agencies, a streamlined and facilitative entry and directional process for development assistance in the form of resources, knowledge, skills, and technology from Filipinos overseas, that will be strategic and responsive to existing development issues and needs of the country and will optimize the assistance s development potentials. 4. To provide mechanisms for various stakeholders to coordinate, forge partnerships, upscale and leverage diaspora funds (e.g., remittances and savings) and investments, broaden donors and investors base, and replicate best practices especially in financial literacy, microfinance and social enterprises, in order to make these funds more effective tools for the country s development and economic growth. CFOPRIMER 3

12 Integration and Reintegration 5. To assist in the integration of migrating Filipinos in their host countries by educating them on the realities of international migration, preparing them to meet the practical, cultural and psychological challenges attendant to migration, and providing them other services as may be developed and needed, mindful of the social costs of migration to the overseas Filipinos themselves (especially for the women who are most vulnerable to abuse, discrimination and exploitation), to the families (especially the children) they have left behind and to their local communities. 6. To assist in the productive and seamless re-integration of returning overseas Filipinos and their families in the country, recommending policies, programs and measures to transform brain-drain to braingain, to enhance the returnees earning capabilities and for better incentives packages for overseas Filipinos to return, to retire and to invest. Culture and Education 7. To ensure that Filipinos overseas remain rooted in their Filipino culture by developing, implementing, promoting, and coordinating with other institutions, global awareness and appreciation of Filipino language, culture and heritage. Institutional Development and Organizational Strengthening 8. To promote the leading role of CFO on the formulation of policies and in addressing key issues on migration and development. 9. To improve and enhance CFO s institutional capabilities for lobbying and advocacy for policy-setting, formulation and reform; in coordinating and building consensus with all migration-related government agencies on issues/policies/ programs of major concern and critical to overseas Filipinos; and mobilizing stakeholders in the migration and development sector, especially for regular multi-stakeholder consultations and collaboration. 10. To provide accurate, timely and comprehensive data on international migration of Filipinos through linkages with government agencies and other stakeholders essential for policy formulation and protection of overseas Filipinos. 4 CFOPRIMER

13 Overseas Filipinos Stock Estimate The CFO estimates that as of December 2009, there are 8.5 million Filipinos overseas. Forty seven percent (47%) of which are permanent migrants, 45% are temporary migrants and 8% are irregulars. Overseas Filipino Workers 3.86M (45%) Permanent Migrants 4.06M (47%) Irregular Migrants 0.65M (8%) Total: 8,579,378 as of December 2009 Top 10 Destination Countries of Registered Filipino Emigrants CFOPRIMER 5

14 Expanded CFO Clientele The passage of Republic Act amending the Migrant Workers and Other Filipinos Act and its implementing rules in 2010, expanded the definition of the term overseas Filipinos to refer to migrant workers, other Filipino nationals and their dependents abroad. This definition includes generally all Filipinos working and living overseas, whether over the long term or short-term. The expansion of the clientele of CFO emphasized the inter-agency coordinative character of the Commission which includes in its board all the Secretaries of migration-related government agencies: the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Labor and Employment, the Department of Tourism, the Department of Education, the National Commission on Culture and the Arts, the Department of Justice, and the Press Secretary. Thus, the expanded CFO clientele includes the following: Filipino permanent residents abroad Filipinos overseas who have become naturalized or dual citizens Filipino spouses of foreign nationals Descendants of Filipinos overseas Filipino youth overseas Exchange Visitor Program participants Migrant Workers and their dependents 6 CFOPRIMER

15 ABOUT THE DIASPORA TO DEVELOPMENT OR D2D PROGRAM Diaspora has been described in several ways. It is the movement, migration or scattering of people away from an established or ancestral homeland. According to Kingsley Aikins, diaspora means people living and working away from their home country but still closely connected to their countries of origin, heritage or interest while the International Organization for Migration defines it as members of ethnic and national communities, who have left, but maintain links with their homeland. Diaspora has emerged as one of the forces of development in a world that is more globalized than ever before. Several migrant-sending countries have harnessed diaspora s resources to boost their country s development. The Irish diaspora has a long tradition of supporting projects for peace and reconciliation, and arts and culture, raising $350 million over three decades and across 12 countries. The Birthright Israel Program has invested $400 million on educational trips to Israel, setting the goal of sending 51,000 young Jewish adults annually by 2013, which means one in every 2 Jewish young adults worldwide would go to Israel. The Indian government has tapped its diaspora base of non-resident Indians for the funding of India Development Bonds, Resurgent India Bonds and India Millennium Deposits. The Chinese diaspora has provided an estimated 70 percent of recent foreign investments in China. In the Philippines, the government has recognized this potential by creating the Commission on Filipinos Overseas, mandating it to provide services to overseas Filipinos. In 1989, the CFO institutionalized the Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino or Link for Philippine Development (LINKAPIL) program, which became the main conduit for development support from overseas Filipino communities. Since its creation, LINKAPIL has channeled over P2.5 billion worth of development assistance nationwide. With the new administration significantly enhancing the scope and coverage of CFO s vision, mission and goals, there is a need to strengthen and increase the depth and extent of the engagement of overseas Filipinos with the motherland. The Diaspora to Development initiative was designed, taking as models the best practices of other countries which have shown significant progress in mobilizing their diaspora communities to contribute to home country development. CFOPRIMER 7

16 The D2D initiative provides the framework and strategies for engaging the Philippine Diaspora in the development of 10 areas of interventions: 1. Alay Dunong Program (ADB or Brain Gain Program) is a program that systematizes and strengthens the skills and technology exchange/ transfer between overseas Filipinos and the mother country, with initial focus in the fields of science and technology and engineering. 2. Arts and Culture Exchange (ACE) is a component that seeks to promote and facilitate the exchange of artistic and cultural products and workers between the country and Filipino communities abroad 3. Balik-Turo (Teach-Share) and Education Exchanges is a continuing professional and vocational education exchange program for the return of overseas members of the academe to strengthen and enhance the educational programs and services of partner schools in the Philippines. The initial focus of the engagement is in Nursing and Teaching Education. This component also includes the expansion of Philippine Schools Overseas (PSO) in other areas. 4. Business Advisory Circle (BAC) is a matching and referral program where business experts provide advice to overseas Filipinos in identifying, setting-up and sustaining business activities and partnerships in the country. 5. Diaspora Investment (DI) is a program where new financial instruments and investment services are developed, enhanced and promoted for overseas Filipinos. Included here is the rechanneling of remittances towards local and national development using various models being practiced here and abroad. 8 CFOPRIMER

17 6. Diaspora Philanthropy (Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino or Linkapil) coordinates and facilitates the transfer of material and financial forms of assistance from overseas Filipinos to development projects in the Philippines. It provides tools to identify and prioritize the areas in need of development assistance as well as the perceived needs of the communities. 7. Global Legal Assistance and Advocacy (GLAAD) mobilizes the support of overseas and local Filipino lawyers and legal experts to provide legal assistance and advice to overseas Filipinos in distress, as well as advocate for laws, policies and programs that empower Filipinos both in their home and host countries. 8. Medical Mission Coordination (MMC) coordinates, facilitates and rationalizes the conduct of medical missions sponsored and organized by overseas Filipinos in areas that require medical interventions. It also provides effective tools to identify basic medical needs of the communities, to monitor and measure the impact of medical missions. 9. Return and Reintegration (R&R) focuses on providing returning overseas Filipinos and retirees with updated information on services for a successful reintegration into local life. 10. Tourism Initiatives (TI) focuses on supporting the drive for balikbayan tourism and encouraging migrant investments in small-scale tourism enterprises, like local bed and breakfast facilities, and other tourismrelated services such as health and wellness services and medical tourism. Under these 10 areas of action, the CFO aims to be the facilitator, the coordinator, the enabler (depending on the need of the component) towards the effective engagement of overseas Filipinos in the above mentioned development initiatives. CFOPRIMER 9

18 YouLeaD: Youth Leaders in the Diaspora Next Generation of Overseas Filipinos in D2D CFO strongly recognizes the importance of engaging the next generation of overseas Filipinos in the development of the country. Though they may have been raised abroad, they continue to keep their social and cultural ties with the Philippines and would like to actively participate in local and national development efforts. While they would still be under the ambit of the D2D program, CFO realizes that their interests, focus and manner of engagement would be non-traditional and, to be expected, true to the characteristics of the younger generation of migrants. Thus, the YouLeaD or Youth Leaders in the Diaspora was created as a framework on how the next generation of Filipinos overseas can contribute to the country s growth, aligned with CFO s strategic goals on policy advocacy, socio-economic development, culture and education, and integration and reintegration. The YouLeaD cuts across the various programs of CFO specifically targeting the overseas Filipino youth. REGULAR PROGRAMS AND SERVICES OF CFO The following are the regular programs and services of the CFO: I. Pre-Departure Registration and Orientation Seminars 10 CFOPRIMER Filipino emigrants are required to register with the CFO. Part of its registration requirements is attendance in the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) to prepare them for settlement overseas. Country-specific PDOS are conducted for Filipino emigrants to address their adjustment concerns in their destination countries. In these seminars, various topics are discussed such as travel regulations, immigration procedures, cultural differences, settlement concerns, employment and social security concerns, and the rights and obligations of Filipino migrants. Children of emigrants, aged 13 to 19, are required to attend the Peer Counseling Program to help facilitate their adjustment to a new environment. In the last five years, the CFO registered an average of 220 emigrants per day.

19 Filipinos going abroad as fiancé(e)s, spouses or other partners of foreign nationals are required to attend the CFO s guidance and counseling session. This is meant to provide adequate information regarding inter-marriage and migration, the cultural and social realities abroad as well as the available support networks for women in distress, among others. In the last five years, an average of 60 fiancé(e)s, spouses or other partners of foreign nationals attended the guidance and counseling program per day. II. Community Education Program The Community Education Program (CEP) is an annual information campaign conducted nationwide by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas in coordination with various government agencies, non-government organizations, local government units, and academic institutions. The program seeks to assist prospective migrants in making informed decisions regarding employment or migration, as well as generate community involvement on related concerns. It also aims to raise public awareness on various issues concerning migration, intermarriages and existing government policies and programs directed against illegal recruitment, documentation fraud and trafficking in persons, among others. III. Philippine Schools Overseas Philippine Schools Overseas (PSOs) are duly-registered educational institutions operating outside the Philippines and implementing the basic education curriculum of the Department of Education. PSOs are established to address the educational needs of children of Filipinos overseas, and eventually facilitate their reintegration into the Philippine educational system. The schools also provide a venue for the teaching and propagation of Filipino culture and heritage among Filipino youth overseas, and serve as a locus for Filipino community activity. The Inter-Agency Committee on Philippine Schools Overseas (IACPSO) was established through Executive Order No. 252 to serve as policy-making body and forum for discussion and resolution of issues concerning the establishment, operation and management of PSOs. Composed of five (5) member-agencies, the Committee is co-chaired by the Department of Education and the Department of Foreign Affairs. Other members are the Department of Labor and Employment, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and the CFO, which also serves as the Secretariat. There are 41 PSOs operating in 10 countries with an estimated 27,500 students currently enrolled CFOPRIMER 11

20 in the pre-elementary, elementary and high school levels. IV. Lakbay-Aral sa Pillipinas The enhanced Lakbay-Aral is a two-week cultural immersion program in the Philippines. Developed and implemented since 1983, the program enables Filipino youth overseas to rediscover their Filipino roots and appreciate the richness and diversity of their heritage thru lectures on Philippine history and language, guided tours to scenic and historical landmarks, interaction with Filipino students, public officials and members of indigenous communities, and participation in local festivities. The program has enabled 180 participants from France, Spain, Switzerland, and the US to visit and gain a better understanding of their motherland. The four new modules of the Lakbay-Aral include: Tracing Philippine Roots, Eco- Tourism, Arts and Culture, and Rest and Recreation for Wellness. V. Exchange Visitor Program The Exchange Visitor Program (EVP) refers to the international exchange program administered by the United States to implement the Mutual Education and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 (as amended, Public Law , 22 USC 2451, et seq., 1988). The purpose of the Act is to increase mutual understanding between the people of the US and other countries by means of educational and cultural exchanges and assist in furthering foreign policy objectives. The EVP Committee is chaired by the Department of Foreign Affairs. The members include: the Department of Health, the Department of Education, the Department of Labor and Employment, the Department of Science and Technology, the National Economic and Development Authority, the Professional Regulatory Commission, the Commission on Higher Education, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, the Office of the Executive Secretary, and the CFO, which also serves as the Secretariat. Among the functions of the EVP Committee are: to screen, process and evaluate applications of prospective program participants; endorse qualified applicants to appropriate host agencies; coordinate and conduct pre-departure and on-site orientation sessions for participants; and develop proposals on incentive schemes and re-entry programs for the participants to facilitate their return to the Philippines to share the skills and expertise acquired overseas. An annual average of 1,150 participants register under the EVP Program. 12 CFOPRIMER

21 VI. RECOGNITION OF OVERSEAS FILIPINOS Recognizing the achievements, excellence and philanthropy of Filipinos overseas, the Philippine government honors them for their sacrifices and dedication to their work, family and the nation through the following programs: A. Month of Overseas Filipinos In 1988, Proclamation No. 276 declared December of every year as Month of Overseas Filipinos. Special projects and activities to recognize the achievements of Filipinos abroad and to encourage their participation in development activities in the country are organized by the Inter- Agency Committee for the Celebration of the Month of Overseas Filipinos and International Migrants Day, chaired by the Philippine Migrants Rights Watch and co-chaired by the CFO. Given the significant role of the media in the promotion and advocacy of migration and development concerns, the CFO launched the Migration Advocacy and Media (MAM) Awards in The MAM Awards recognize the positive and significant contributions of media outlets, institutions and practitioners in the fields of print, radio, movie, television, advertising, and the internet. These include government and private media organizations in the Philippines and abroad who raise public awareness on issues relative to migration and development with particular attention to Filipino migration, advocate the cause of Filipinos overseas and promote their positive image. B. Presidential Awards for Filipinos Individuals and Organizations Overseas The Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas, established through Executive Order No. 498 in December 1991, is a biennial award conferred on distinguished Filipino individuals and organizations in recognition of their outstanding contributions to national development efforts, or their outstanding achievements in their field or profession. The awards are also conferred on foreign individuals and organizations that provide assistance to the country or advance the cause of Filipino communities overseas. As of 2010, there are 338 awardees from 43 countries. The program is managed by the CFO. CFOPRIMER 13

22 NEW PROGRAMS/INITIATIVES OF CFO In addition to its regular programs and services, the CFO is currently spearheading new initiatives in partnership with other government agencies and civil society organizations for the promotion of the interests and well-being of overseas Filipinos and their families. The following are the new programs of the CFO: I. Global Summit of Filipinos in the Diaspora The Global Summit will be held for the first time on September 2011 at the Philippine International Convention Center on Roxas Boulevard, Manila: 1) To highlight the achievements of overseas Filipinos in all fields worldwide and to discuss how their resources, skills, knowledge, technology, talents, and competencies can be harnessed systematically and synergistically for the country s social, cultural and economic development, with the support, coordination and assistance of the Philippine government, especially through the Commission on Filipinos Overseas; 2) To create, grow and sustain an ecosystem or network of leaders of the overseas Filipinos community, including Filipino youth overseas working together and communicating with each other; and 3) To launch the Commission on Filipinos Overseas Diaspora to Development or D2D flagship program which is holistic and lays down the permutations / templates on how overseas Filipinos can participate or remain engaged in the development of the country. The CFO plans to conduct a Global Summit every other year but mini-summits based on the region of work or residence of Filipinos overseas may be undertaken annually. 14 CFOPRIMER

23 II. Overseas Filipinos Remittances for Development (OFs-RED) The Overseas Filipinos Remittances for Development Project: Building a Future Back Home (OFs- RED Project) is spearheaded by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) under its Poverty Reduction and Support to the Millennium Development Goals and sponsored by Western Union s philanthropy arm The Western Union Foundation (WUF). The project addresses the goal of harnessing the potential of overseas remittances for poverty reduction and, consequently, local economic development. It aims to support policies that transform overseas remittances for development, savings and investments, and build up a viable collective remittance fund. Its major activities include policy dialogues and assessment of government remittance-related policies, build up a viable collective remittance fund and awareness campaign on collective remittance models, and the pilot implementation of collective remittance model in Taguig and Ilocos Norte. The CFO, in partnership with the National Economic Development Authority-Social Development Staff (NEDA-SDS), is implementing the project. III. Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking - Advocacy and Communications Committee The rise in international trafficking in persons for sexual exploitation, forced labor and other slaverylike services especially in Asia, led to the enactment of Republic Act 9208 or the Anti-Trafficking Act of The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) is the body mandated by law to coordinate and monitor the implementation of the law, with the Department of Justice as the lead agency. In January 2011, the CFO was appointed ex-officio member of IACAT and chair of its Advocacy and Communications Committee (IACAT-ADVOCOM). It spearheaded the setting up of the 24/ Actionline Against Human Trafficking in March 2011, to respond to requests for assistance, inquiries and referrals involving suspected human trafficking activities phoned in by victims, their families and the general public. It systematizes the CFOPRIMER 15

24 referral and follow-up of cases vis-à-vis the appropriate government agencies or non-government organizations providing direct and immediate assistance to victims. The 1343 Actionline can be reached from any point in the Philippines. IV. Building a Coordinated Reintegration Framework for Overseas Filipinos The Philippines is known as a best practice model in the area of migration management particularly in the deployment of Filipino workers and for institutionalizing landmark legislation for the protection of Filipinos abroad. While pre-departure services for all types of Filipino migrants have been developed and improved through the years, there is a gap in the programs and services that are afforded to these migrants upon their return to the homeland. The proposed framework strengthens the current reintegration program for ALL types of Filipino migrants. It provides a more comprehensive package of services and opportunities to returnees regardless of their status abroad dual citizens, 2nd and 3rd generation Filipinos, overseas Filipino workers and their families, irregular migrants and the like. In coordination with various migrant-serving agencies, Civil Society Organizations and international organizations, the proposed CFO return and reintegration framework is geared towards developing and promoting responsive, productive, and sustainable reintegration programs and services to Filipino returnees and their families. It makes available a referral and follow- up system among appropriate government agencies and non-government organizations providing direct and immediate assistance to Overseas Filipino returnees. It is likewise intended to develop a knowledge management system among returnees to maximize gains from their overseas experience by providing options for knowledge sharing while developing competitiveness in various industries in the Philippines. V. CFO Information Systems Strategic Plan The CFO Information Systems Strategic Plan (ISSP) for contains the CFO s proposed information system strategies, technical resource requirements, inter-connectivity, and systems application plan for the period covered. The ISSP encompasses the development of information and database systems that will provide communications and technological structure to support 16 CFOPRIMER

25 the effective implementation of the CFO mandate, programs and services. It aims to provide: Easier and faster client access to CFO; Dependable and integrated information system for front-line and vital support processes; Faster services without compromising the security of information and quality of service; Integrated information and communications systems; and Strong web presence. The ISSP will provide the information systems to support and address the CFO s strategic thrusts and programs such as pre-departure and guidance and counseling services, processing of donations from Filipinos overseas, project monitoring, annual stock estimation and generation of statistics on overseas Filipinos, and websites. VI. Migration Data under the Philippines-EU Partnership on Migration and Development In line with the framework of the Philippines-EU Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, the Delegation of the European Union in the Philippines proposed an Action Fische for the Philippines which is expected to be implemented in The overall objective of the project is to promote good governance, poverty reduction and development through the strengthening of international migration policy-making, planning and management, including, inter alia, a proper reflection of the social impact of migration in the Philippines. The specific objectives are: Component 1 to strengthen the national migration socio-economic information system; and Component 2 to better integrate international migration into social and economic development planning and programming at all levels (national, regional and local). Under Component 1, a Project Steering Committee will be established to be chaired by CFO in partnership with the POEA/DOLE for the improvement of international migration data. In line with this, such data will be improved, harmonized and standardized (i.e., consistent, accurate, timely, accessible and socially sensitive) by capacitating agencies in data collection, processing CFOPRIMER 17

26 and management, as well as the establishment of an effective inter-agency migration data coordination system. To achieve these results, there is a need to develop an interconnected government information system for migration that operates effectively as a tool of inter-agency data coordination and improvement with a migration database that conforms with international definitions and concepts. VII. Migration and Development-Related Excerpts / Provisions in the Philippine Development Plan The Philippine Development Plan serves as a guide in formulating policies and implementing development programs for the next six years. It enables the government, in partnership with the private sector and the civil society, to work systematically to give the Filipino people a better chance to find their way out of poverty, inequality and the poor state of human development. The following are some of the migration and development-related excerpts/ provisions in the PDP which the CFO strongly advocated, in line with its vision of being the Philippines premier institution in promoting policies, programs and projects with Migration and Development as a framework: 60 provisions on Migration and Development were included in 7 out of 9 chapters of the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) CHAPTER 1: In Pursuit of Inclusive Growth What Is Inclusive Growth (p. 18) Inclusive growth means, first of all, growth that is rapid enough to matter, given the country s large population, geographical differences and social complexity. It is sustained growth that creates jobs, draws the vast majority into the economic and social mainstream, and continuously reduces mass poverty. This is an ideal relative to which the country has perennially fallen short, and this failure has had the most far-reaching consequences, from mass misery and marginalization, to an overseas exodus of skill and talent, to political disaffection and alienation, leading finally to threats to the constitution of the state itself. 18 CFOPRIMER

27 Relations with foreign nations shall be actively cultivated to support sovereignty, regional peace and security, and economic cooperation based on equitable and mutual benefit. How Shall We Achieve Inclusive Growth (p. 31) Relations with foreign nations shall be actively cultivated to support sovereignty, regional peace and security, and economic cooperation based on equitable and mutual benefit. Paramount consideration shall be paid to the ensuring the welfare and protection of the millions of Filipinos working overseas. A Window of Opportunity (p. 32) In economic terms, the country s external payments and international credit position have not been healthier in decades for various reasons. Thanks to overseas remittances, surpluses on current account have been run consistently since (p. 33) Nor should it be forgotten that today s chances were purchased by past sacrifices: by overseas workers who endured separation from their families; by laborers and farmers who experienced wrenching structural changes; by the middle class and other taxpayers who shouldered the debt burdens of the past; by government personnel who soldiered on professionally despite the rot surrounding them; and by the brave and vigilant citizenry who never lost faith in constitutional values, democratic processes and the possibility of an honest government. CHAPTER 2: Macroeconomic Policy OUTPUT & EMPLOYMENT (Economic Performance ) (p. 36) GDP growth averaged 5.6 percent for the period , while average GNP growth was higher at 5.9 percent, boosted by transfers from overseas workers. (p. 37) Overall, consumption fuelled by remittances is the largest and most stable source of growth from the demand side. The contribution of net exports (including BPO), although volatile, was also positive. (pp ) Private construction likewise grew 13.3 percent, boosted by remittance-fuelled residential construction as well as the need for more supply of office space. Overall, capital formation grew CFOPRIMER 19

28 12.4 percent, up from the 5.1 percent growth of a year ago and the 8.8 percent contraction two years previously. Likewise, private consumption, which constitutes the largest proportion of GDP on the expenditure side, continued its stable growth at 5.9 percent, fuelled by remittances from overseas workers. EMPLOYMENT AND POVERTY (p. 44) This partly reflects the difficulty of gaining employment in the formal labor market and implies a high incidence of informal sector work. In addition, the 43.2 percent educated unemployed out of the total unemployed labor force is also very high, a symptom of the labor mismatch in the country and a factor contributing to the growing deployment of Filipino workers overseas, averaging about 1.1 million per year. (p. 45) The sheer volume of workers working temporarily overseas indicates the lack of employment opportunities and suggests that domestic investments and entrepreneurship are being held back. These constraints need to be addressed along with strategies formulated to ensure that the working poor and the unemployed can participate and benefit from the development process. MONETARY AND EXTERNAL SECTORS (External Sectors) (p. 51) The current account balance as a ratio of GDP has increased from 1.9 percent in 2004 to 4.5 percent in The current account position has shifted to structural surpluses in large part due to the resilience of overseas remittances, increased services receipts from business process outsourcing and steady tourism receipts. These sources of foreign exchange inflows have been more stable than investment flows. (p. 51) Overseas Filipino (OF) remittances have been steadily growing even when the global financial crisis broke out. In 2010, remittances coursed through banks amounted to US$18.8 billion, an increase by 8.2 percent from the level recorded in previous year. MONETARY POLICY AND EXTERNAL SECTOR REFORMS (p. 60) Furthermore, policymakers will need to focus on leveraging remittances as a tool for economic development. While remittances are private transfers, the government can ensure that the policy 20 CFOPRIMER Furthermore, policymakers will need to focus on leveraging remittances as a tool for economic development.

29 environment is conducive to the use of remittances for investment in well-considered financial products, in productive activities such as entrepreneurial undertaking as well as in better housing, education and healthcare for remitters and their beneficiaries. Improving the financial education of the overseas Filipino community and implementing measures to further promote the flow of remittances through the financial system would help catalyze the developmental role of remittances. CHAPTER 3: Competitive Industry and Services Sector (p. 62) By addressing the country s problem of low competitiveness, this Plan aims to promote higher growth in per capita GDP and boost employment. The focus shall be to enable the industry and services sectors to contribute to massive job generation, provide opportunities for Filipinos to rise above poverty, and ultimately offer a meaningful choice for Filipinos to pursue gainful employment here or abroad. (p. 63) Government shall promote sustainable livelihood and micro enterprise development, harnessing the Overseas Filipinos (OFs) community as a source of capital. EXPORT OF GOODS AND SERVICES (p. 67) Globally, the evolution in technology, prioritization of business strategies, migration, innovation and trends, environment-consciousness, and value for money have influenced the emergence of technology-based sectors, strengthened hospitality services and increased the capability for borderless transactions. The Government has been vigilant in the growth of these industries, two of which are the BPOs and tourism. Tourism (p. 69) Tourism is regarded as the fourth largest contributor to foreign exchange receipts. The top three are electronics and semiconductors, overseas Filipino remittances and BPO. TEN-POINT AGENDA Goal 2: Action Agenda to improve productivity and efficiency (p. 85) To ensure market-responsive education and training, the supply side of the labor equation should CFOPRIMER 21

30 be addressed through quality education/training and effective assessment and certification systems. The government shall undertake and maximize capacity-building programs with the support of foreign governments and intra-government organizations under the framework of various bilateral and multilateral engagements. Likewise, linkages among Filipino skilled workers and their business network, technical experts and Filipinos involved in epistemic communities abroad shall pursue various multi-stakeholder talent-sharing, braingain and skills enhancement initiatives (e.g., Science and Technology Advisory Council, the Balik-Scientist Program and ERDT). In addition, sunrise industrial or service activities with global potential shall be identified by roadmaps that forecast and prepare initiatives for skills requirements on employment needs. From 2007 to 2010, four roadmaps were developed for such industries: (a) electronics, (b) BPO/IT enabled-services, (c) medical tourism, and (d) health and wellness (including the retirement) sectors. By 2016, roadmaps for the remaining sunrise industries namely agribusiness, eco-mining, value chain materials, and manufacturing, shall be developed to complement the employment requirements. In cooperation with higher education institutions and the private sector, niches shall be identified and matched with the employment needs and strategic positioning of local firms and industries. Focus Interventions To Increase Exports/ Investments/ Tourism (pp ) Undertake a focused and sustained international and domestic tourism promotion campaign and programs using both traditional and the new social networking media targeting existing and new markets as well as OFs. Launch focused and sustained international and domestic tourism programs using the new media with the support of OFs. Likewise, the support and cooperation mechanism for private sector and non-government organization s participation shall be enhanced. Efficient intragovernment coordination system shall be put into practice in tourism promotional and planning activities. These shall involve the Tourism Promotions Board (as mandated by the Tourism Act of 2009) and the respective tourism related promotional units of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), BOI, DTI, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), and the various agencies and councils supporting culture and the arts (i.e., CCA, FDCP, and so forth). The entry of tourists under thematic programs (e.g., health and wellness and employment generation) shall be further facilitated in coordination with the DFA, Department of Justice (DOJ) and the BOI. Such a multi-dimensional stakeholder approach shall maximize the promotion of medical tourism; retirement; meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE); adventure and ecotourism; film production, and Philippine cultural and culinary diversity. Promote Entrepreneurship among OFs (p. 95) A more aggressive campaign to tap OFs as sources of capital shall be pursued. Government shall utilize media and various forums, including presidential and official trips, in encouraging entrepreneurship 22 CFOPRIMER A more aggressive campaign to tap OFs as sources of capital shall be pursued.

31 among OFs and/or their dependents. DTI and DOLE shall review and strengthen existing programs and consider ways to maximize the brain-gain derived by OFs from foreign deployment. The DFA, DOLE, DOF, Commission on Filipinos Overseas, and the Bangko Sentral shall conduct financial literacy campaign overseas to educate and orient OFs regarding their investment and remittance options which may include special bond issuances and related financial instruments.the government shall continue to implement the national innovation strategy called Filipinnovation. CHAPTER 6: Towards a Resilient and Inclusive Financial Sector ASSESMENT AND CHALLENGES (p. 182) Together with improved macroeconomic conditions, the steady inflow of remittances from OFWs, a minimal investment exposure to foreign structured products and a low dependence on exports, these reforms allowed the financial system to avoid the worst difficulties encountered by other economies during the financial crises. STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK (Specific Reform Strategies) Credit Surety Fund Program (CSF) (p. 194) The CSF is a program that involves the creation of a trust fund contributed by cooperatives from a province and its provincial government intended primarily to make micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) bankable by giving them access to formal sources of financing by means of a surety cover as a substitute for collateral. Micro-Housing (p. 194) 5. Encourage the continuing development of new loan products and other banking services aimed to address the special needs of the poor, women and persons with disability (PWDs). Unlike other borrowers, the target market for microfinance products such as those belonging to the agriculture sector might have cash flows that are different A Collective Investment Scheme Law (CISL) to broaden investor participation in the securities market, including participation by Overseas Filipinos. from those observed from the usual borrower. Likewise, there is a wide variety in the purpose of their loan application: consumption smoothing, financing for educational needs and funds for migration purposes such as placement fees, document processing fees. Hence, these warrant the introduction of financial products specifically designed for this group of borrowers. Establish a strong legal framework for financial sector development (p. 200) 4. Provide an adequate legal framework to encourage greater investor participation, address financial CFOPRIMER 23

32 taxation and effective oversight of the national payments systems. A Collective Investment Schemes Law (CISL) to broaden investor participation in the securities market, including participation by Overseas Filipinos. Promote greater financial literacy of the population, including those in the countryside and OFW-rich areas abroad. (p. 201) 8. Introduce alternative savings and investment products through the following specific reforms: Address the needs of the resurgent real estate industry by providing funds for infrastructure projects, widening access to investment in real estate projects, broadening the participation of the public, including OFs, in the ownership of real estate, and protecting the investing public from abuses of real estate investment trusts pursuant to provisions of the Real Estate Investment Trust or REIT Act of 2009 (RA 9856). (p. 202) 11. Empowerment of Filipino consumers through strong consumer protection mechanisms and financial literacy or education programs: a) Promote greater financial literacy of the population, including those in the countryside and OFW-rich areas abroad by encouraging the participation of non-government and private sector organizations in the delivery of financial education programs. CHAPTER 7: Good Governance and the Rule of Law Gender Roles in Governance Structures (p. 214) Major progress has been slow, however, as seen in more recent international gender assessments. The Gender Development Index in the 2009 Human Development Report of the UNDP and the Country Gender Assessment of the ADB in 2008 showed similar findings that the Philippines workforce continues to be dominated by males, despite increasing numbers of women having higher educational attainment. Women continue to be burdened by the debilitating impact of poverty and the lingering economic crisis, and out-migration among women remains high, with many in service and domestic occupations. The challenge remains for government to ensure that statutory mandates relating to gender and development concerns are observed and implemented efficiently and effectively by all concerned sectors. Women continue to be burdened by the debilitating impact of poverty and the lingering economic crisis and out-migration among women remains high with many in service and domestic occupations. 24 CFOPRIMER

33 Strengthen the Rule of Law (p. 227) Increase resources for justice sector agencies and quasi-judicial bodies. Modernize and upgrade facilities for law enforcers such as the PNP and the NBI crime laboratories, forensic investigation facilities and equipment. Improve capacities of prosecutors and law enforcers particularly NBI agents in the investigation and prosecution of special cases involving economic or white-collar crimes such as money laundering, tax evasion, smuggling, human trafficking, violations of intellectual property rights and antitrust laws, illegal drugs, and even cases involving extra-legal killings and other human rights violations as well as violation of environmental laws. ASSESMENT (Social Protection) CHAPTER 8: Social Development (p. 244) Wide disparities across regions were also evident. Among regions, ARMM had the highest poverty incidence in 2006 according to six basic sector categories, namely: children, farmers, youth, urban population, and senior citizens. CARAGA had the highest poverty incidence under fisherfolk and migrant and formal sectors (Annex 8.9). Meanwhile, NCR posted the lowest poverty incidence in five sectors, namely children, women, youth, senior citizens, and migrant and formal sector workers (NSCB, 2006). (p. 244) Region 6 had the most number of poor youth and migrant and formal workers. In 2008, 54.7 percent of the total number of female OFWs were laborers and unskilled workers... (p. 245) The limited coverage of the social security schemes (i.e., Government Service Insurance System, Social Security System or SSS) means that the larger part of the workforce found in the informal and vulnerable occupations are marginalized. Although there have been attempts by PhilHealth to cover the poor and unemployed, as well as workers in the informal sector (IS) and those working overseas, universal membership has yet to be achieved. Children (p. 246) Children in especially difficult circumstances include street children, victims of child abuse and commercial sexual exploitation, child victims of prostitution and pornography, children in conflict with the law, children in situations of armed conflict, children with disabilities, child victims of illegal recruitment and trafficking, and child laborers. CFOPRIMER 25

34 Women (p. 246) While Filipino women may be considered as relatively advanced vis-a-vis women in other developing countries (e.g., in the areas of education, profession, politics, and legislation), they also suffer from domestic violence, economic disadvantages, discrimination at the workplace, exploitation as migrant workers and prostituted women, and displacement brought about by the intermittent wars in conflictaffected areas. In general, women are in disadvantaged position due to differences in gender roles that limit their access to productive resources and basic services. In 2008, 54.7 percent of the total number of female OFWs were laborers and unskilled workers, including domestic helpers, cleaners and manufacturing laborers. Remittances from female OFWs worldwide were relatively lower than from their male counterparts. Social security and protection of OFWs are growing concerns, given the limited coverage of the SSS, PHIC and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration... Elderly (p. 247) In 2003 and 2006, the number of elderly people in the Philippines was estimated at about 5.2 million and 6.3 million, respectively. Some of the risks and vulnerabilities of the elderly included loss of income as a result of retirement, disability and impairment of functions affecting their quality of life, lack of or inadequate health care insurance and lack of adequate living conditions for those who live alone. There was also a rise in the number of elderly persons who were victims of violence and abandonment due to in and out migration of younger family members. Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) (p. 247) Social security and protection of OFWs are growing concerns, given the limited coverage of the SSS, PHIC and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). Out of 8.6 million overseas Filipinos (OFs) in 2009, 4 million are permanent migrants, 3.9 million are temporary OFWs and 658,370 are irregular migrants....making the education system responsive to the needs of the global community, while minimizing brain drain, encouraging brain gain and protecting the Filipino family from the social costs of migration. There is, therefore, a need to review the viability of current social security and welfare fund schemes, given the limited capacity and resources of the country s social security and welfare fund institutions. Another challenge is the exclusion of domestic workers, the top occupational category with respect to deployment of land-based OFWs, in most of the social security laws particularly in top destination countries. 26 CFOPRIMER

35 Displaced Workers (p. 248) While the global financial crisis had a minimal impact on the deployment of OFWs, OWWA and POEA data indicated that 6,957 workers in 327 companies lost their jobs mostly from factories in Taiwan and South Korea. Of this number, nearly two-thirds (4,495) returned to the Philippines....mutual recognition/ accreditation of skills and professional development of Filipino workers vis-avis neighboring countries. Education, Training and Culture (p. 270) Devise a transnational education (TNE) strategy in programs and services for both in-bound and out-bound students and workers, including mutual recognition/accreditation of skills and professional development of Filipino workers vis-a-vis neighboring countries. Reasonable and mutually beneficial supervision and regulation of TNE should lead to quality assurance and management of foreign providers, as well as the integrity and competitiveness of Filipino providers. Labor Market Interventions (p. 271) Balance the demands of globalization through a locally-adapted/indigenized curricula that promote and preserve indigenous knowledge by: (a) expanding and upgrading the capacity to teach foreign languages in response to the requirements of internationally-shared human resources and emerging needs in the ASEAN region; (b) integrating balanced messages on migration and development in the Philippine education, both in the formal and alternative learning system; (c) making the education system responsive to the needs of the global community, while minimizing brain-drain, encouraging brain-gain and protecting the Filipino family from the social costs of migration; and (d) encouraging Filipinos overseas to remain rooted in their culture through an appreciation of Filipino languages, culture and heritage. (p. 274) Implement active labor market policies and programs to enhance the employability of vulnerable workers, such as those affected by Encourage Filipinos overseas to remain rooted in their culture through an appreciation of Filipino languages, culture and heritage. crisis, workers in the informal economy, displaced and distressed OFWs, internally displaced people, the youth and women: a) Improve access, availability and affordability of training in new skills and occupations; b) Expand training opportunities for vulnerable workers; and CFOPRIMER 27

36 c) Facilitate the reintegration of returning OFWs through appropriate training, investment and savings programs. Initiate policy interventions, programs, projects, and other measures to ensure the transformation of the brain-drain into a brain-gain phenomenon, and enhance the earning capabilities and entrepreneurship opportunities of returnees. Social Insurance (p. 274) 1. Achieve and sustain universal coverage of the poorest and vulnerable sectors, including the IS and OFWs who can afford to pay: a) Enroll the poorest families in PhilHealth by utilizing the NHTS-PR; b) Expand coverage of IS workers, and pursue legislation that mandates the enrolment among of IS workers who can afford to pay; c) Provide effective membership services; and d) Secure access to critical outpatient services at accredited rural health units and health centers, and to critical inpatient services at the national and local hospitals. (p. 275) 2. Develop enhanced social insurance measures for vulnerable groups against economic and natural shocks particularly for laid-off workers: a) Implement employment insurance for workers in the private sector and IS; b) Implement indigenous microinsurance schemes and integrate microinsurance into microfinance lending; c) Re-examine whether the SSS contributions required of IS Facilitate the reintegration of returning OFWs through appropriate training, investment and savings programs. Social Welfare Initiate policy interventions, programs, projects and other measures to ensure the transformation of the brain-drain into a brain-gain phenomenon, and enhance the earning capabilities and entrepreneurship opportunities of returnees. workers remain affordable and realistic; and d) Implement mandatory SSS coverage for landbased OFWs, and include SSS enrolment as prerequisite in the issuance of the Overseas Employment Certificate. (p. 275) 7. Strengthen measures against human trafficking and provide support for its victims. (p. 276) 8. Fully implement the laws protecting and promoting the rights of vulnerable groups, (e.g., IPRA, Expanded Senior Citizens Act, Amended Magna Carta for PWDs, Magna Carta for Women, Magna 28 CFOPRIMER

37 Implement mandatory SSS coverage for landbased OFWs, and include SSS enrolment as prerequisite in the issuance of the Overseas Employment Certificate. Carta for Migrant Workers, Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, Juvenile Justice Welfare Act, Anti- Violence against Women and their Children Act); (p. 276) 10. Campaign for other countries to ratify international conventions, treaties, standards, and protocols that are relevant to the protection and promotion of the rights and well-being of OFs. Safety Nets (p. 276) 5. Strengthen safety nets for OFWs: a) Intensify the effort for OWWA membership enrolment and renewal; and b) Institute dialogues and forge agreements to further strengthen cooperation with labor-receiving countries towards mutual protection and benefits for the OFWs. LEGISLATIVE AGENDA (Social Protection) Anti-Prostitution Bill (p. 284) This seeks to address the system of prostitution through the apprehension and prosecution of agents, recruiters, traffickers, pimps, procurers, establishment owners, customers, and others who derive sexual gratification, financial gain or any other benefit from the prostitution of another person. It shall also complement the current laws on anti-trafficking and violence against women, in protecting and promoting the rights of the vulnerable groups, especially women and children. Campaign for other countries to ratify international conventions, treaties, standards and protocols that are relevant to the protection and promotion of the rights and wellbeing of OFs. Magna Carta for Domestic Workers (p. 284) It seek to protect and promote the welfare of domestic workers by providing realistic minimum wage and other benefits, such as SSS and PhilHealth, implementing the use of a formal contract to govern employee-employer relationship, and preventing physical, sexual, mental and economic abuse of workers among others. CFOPRIMER 29

38 ASSESMENTS AND CHALLENGES 30 CFOPRIMER CHAPTER 9: Peace and Security (p. 292) A stable national security environment is crucial to achieving development, human security and general welfare. Stability can be threatened, however, by internal security concerns such as recurring armed conflict and criminality, together with new global security threats such as terrorism, human trafficking, illegal arms trade, and drug trafficking. External Security Challenges (p. 293) As global trade in goods and services and international investment become important drivers of the country s economic growth, government shall continue to be vigilant in responding to crimes that thrive under an environment of increasingly open borders, such as terrorism, human trafficking, arms and drug-trafficking, and smuggling. (p. 294) In addition to territorial threats, the overseas diaspora of Filipinos entails a wider redefinition and understanding of threats to Filipino interests. In particular, the predicament of overseas Filipinos who come into conflict with the laws of other countries poses complex new challenges...the overseas diaspora of Filipinos entails a wider redefinition and understanding of threats to Filipino interests. In particular, the predicament of overseas Filipinos who come into conflict with the laws of other countries poses complex new challenges to the country s conduct of foreign relations, with potential repercussions on issues of sovereignty and territorial integrity. to the country s conduct of foreign relations, with potential repercussions on issues of sovereignty and territorial integrity. (p. 294) A comprehensive response to these concerns involves initiatives to improve relations and forge cooperation with other nations to preserve and protect national security and interest, including the welfare of Filipinos living and working abroad.

39 STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK Section 2. Ensuring National Security (p. 299) 2. To assure full capability to uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the state, the following strategies shall be undertaken: (p. 299) Pursue friendly and peaceful bilateral and multilateral relations with other nations and international agencies to promote cooperative projects in the political, economic and military fields, as well as assuring the security and welfare of Filipinos working and living abroad. (p. 299) Enhancement of border security through the strict enforcement of the Philippine immigration laws and upgrading of surveillance and detection capacity to thwart the entry of foreign terrorists and other lawless elements as well as human trafficking and smuggling of anti-social goods and weapons of mass destruction. PHILIPPINE LAWS AND POLICIES AFFECTING OVERSEAS FILIPINOS 1. Republic Act No or Migrant Workers and Other Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995 (as amended by RA 10022) Republic Act No was enacted in June 1995 to concretize government s commitment to protect the rights and promote the welfare of migrant workers, their families and other overseas Filipinos in distress. It also provides the framework for concerted government action in dealing with difficulties faced by Filipinos abroad. The law seeks to protect the rights and interests of Filipino workers and other Filipinos abroad through specific policies and services. CFOPRIMER 31

40 Among the programs and services for overseas Filipinos provided by the law include issuance of travel advisory/ information dissemination, institutionalization Migrant Workers Loan Guarantee Fund and Legal Assistance Fund, establishment of Migrant Workers and Other Overseas Filipino Resource Centers, establishment of Shared Government Information System for Migration, establishment of National Reintegration Center for OFWs, creation of the Assistance to Nationals Task Force, and compulsory insurance coverage for Agency-Hired Workers. For the complete text of the law, visit this link: 2. Republic Act No or Overseas Absentee Voting Law of 2003 Republic Act No ensures equal opportunity to all qualified citizens of the Philippines abroad in the exercise of their right to participate in the election of President, Vice-President, Senators, and Party-List Representatives. The law covers the qualifications, as well as disqualifications relative to the registration as overseas absentee voters, the application for registration or certification as overseas absentee voter, the procedure for filing applications for registration/certification, and the modes of voting. For the complete text of the law, visit this link: 3. Republic Act No or Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition Act of 2003 CITIZENSHIP LAW Republic Act No enables natural-born Filipinos who have lost their Filipino citizenship through naturalization in a foreign country, to re-acquire their Filipino citizenship by taking an oath of allegiance to the Republic of the Philippines. Natural-born citizens of the Philippines are those who are citizens of the Philippines from birth without having to perform any act to acquire or perfect their Philippine citizenship. These are: 1. Those whose fathers or mothers are citizens of the Philippines at the time of their birth; and 2. Those born before January 17, 1973, of Filipino mothers, who elect Philippine citizenship upon reaching the age of majority. The law also specifies 32 CFOPRIMER

41 the civil, political and economic rights and liabilities attendant to dual citizenship. For the complete text of the law, visit this link: 4. Republic Act No or Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003 Republic Act No aims to eliminate trafficking in persons, especially women and children, establishes necessary institutional mechanisms to protect and support trafficked persons, and provides certain penalties for violators. Trafficking in persons refers to the recruitment, transportation, transfer or harboring, or receipt of persons with or without the victim s consent or knowledge, within or across national borders by means of threat or use of force, or other forms of coercion, abduction, fraud, deception, abuse of power or of position, taking advantage of the vulnerability of the person, or the giving or receiving of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person for the purpose of exploitation which includes at a minimum, the exploitation or the prostitution of others; other forms of sexual exploitation, forced labor or services, slavery, servitude; and the removal or sale of organs. The law also created the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) which is tasked to oversee implementation of the law. For the complete text of the law, visit this link: 5. Republic Act No or Balikbayan Law of 1990 (as amended by RA 9174) Republic Act No was enacted to attract and encourage overseas Filipinos to visit the Philippines as a balikbayan. The law was amended by Republic Act No providing additional benefits to enable our balikbayans to become economically self-reliant members of society upon their return to the country. A balikbayan refers to: 1. Former Filipino citizens holding foreign passports, including spouses and children traveling with them; 2. Filipinos who have been continuously out of the Philippines for at least one year; or 3. Overseas Filipino workers. A balikbayan is entitled to the following benefits: travel tax exemption, visa-free entry to the Philippines for a period of one year for foreign passport holders, duty-free and kabuhayan CFOPRIMER 33

42 shopping privileges, use of accredited transportation facilities that will ensure their safe and convenient trips upon arrival, and entrepreneurial training and livelihood skills programs and marketing assistance, among others. For the complete text of the law, visit this link: OTHER GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS AND SERVICES FOR OVERSEAS FILIPINOS The following are some of the programs and services of other government agencies concerning the protection and well-being of overseas Filipinos: 34 CFOPRIMER SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM (SSS) The Social Security System administers the provision of social security protection to workers and their beneficiaries in the private sector. It was created by virtue of Republic Act No. 1161, (Social Security Act of 1954) as amended. Republic Act No. 8282, which was signed into law on May 1, 1997, further strengthened SSS by providing better benefit packages, expansion of coverage, flexibility in investments, and the establishment of a voluntary provident fund for members, among others. The SSS vision is to develop and promote a viable, universal and equitable social security protection scheme through world-class service. SSS coverage is either compulsory or voluntary. Filipino seafarers are compulsory members while land-based OFWs can be voluntary members. SSS also offers a voluntary provident fund known as the SSS Flexi-fund, a voluntary provident fund for OFWs. The SSS, through the Flexi-fund Program, provides OFWs the opportunity to set aside a part of their earnings abroad and maximize the returns on their Flexi-fund contributions. It is offered as a supplement to SSS benefits to which a regular OFW member is entitled. For more information, please contact:

43 International Affairs and Branch Expansion Office Social Security System 3/F, SSS Building, East Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City Tel. Nos. (+632) / / Fax No. (+632) member_relations@sss.gov.ph Website: PAG-IBIG OVERSEAS PROGRAM With the introduction of the Republic Act No (Home Development Mutual Fund Law of 2009), a number of changes affecting overseas Filipinos have been implemented on the existing rules of the Pag-IBIG Fund. Basically, all Pag-IBIG Members are entitled to three benefits: Housing Loans, Short-Term Loans (Multi- Purpose and Calamity Loans) and Provident Savings. 1. Mandatory Membership In the past, membership in the Pag-IBIG Fund by OFW and migrant Filipinos is only voluntary under the Pag-IBIG Overseas Program. All overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and Filipino seafarers are already required to become members of the Pag- IBIG Fund. 2. Membership Application OFWs can register at the following offices: Pag-IBIG desks located in Philippine Embassies or Consulates Pag-IBIG Fund International Operations Group, 6th Floor, Justine Bldg., Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City, Philippines Any Pag-IBIG branch or office in the Philippines Pag-IBIG satellite office in the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency (POEA) Partner banks and remittance agencies recognized by Pag-IBIG, such as PNB, Metrobank and iremit Global Remittances Inc. OFWs can also register on-line through the Fund s official website: For more information, contact: Pag-IBIG Fund International Operations Group 6th Floor, Justine Bldg., Gil Puyat Avenue Makati City, Philippines Tel. Nos.: (+632) , Fax No.: (+632) Website: CFOPRIMER 35

44 MEDICARE (PHILHEALTH) In 2005, PhilHealth assumed the administration of the Medicare Program for overseas Filipino workers from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration by virtue of Executive Order No. 182 as amended. The transfer of program completed the consolidation of different Medicare programs separately administered by the Government Service Insurance System for public sector workers and the Social Security System for those in the private sector. It also paved the way for the creation of the Overseas Workers Program or OWP as a regular membership category in PhilHealth. The OWP covers all land-based overseas Filipino workers whose jobs are covered by appropriate job contracts with overseas-based employers. Aside from OFWs, their legal dependents also enjoy PhilHealth coverage without additional premiums. Members are entitled to the following benefits: in-patient coverage, out-patient coverage and special benefit packages. For more information, visit the nearest PhilHealth regional/service office or contact: Overseas Workers Program (OWP) c/o Special Programs Department 11/F Citystate Centre, 709 Shaw Boulevard, Pasig City 1603, Philippines Direct Line: (02) Trunk Line: (02) loc Mobile No.: owp@philhealth.gov.ph Website: INVESTMENT AND BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES The Commission on Filipinos Overseas has developed a compilation called the Investment and Business Guide for Overseas Filipinos, a basic guidebook containing a broad spectrum of business and investment options in the Philippines. The guidebook was developed to encourage those who have accumulated considerable savings to seriously look into prospect of investing in the country. Major investment areas include the development of tourism and leisure facilities, franchising, and the establishment of pre-schools and independent learning institutions. Also included are options in highly competitive industries such as export and agribusiness, the oil industry, asset and 36 CFOPRIMER

45 property management, and the operation of banks and other lending institutions. The compilation is in a CD format. It also contains the fundamentals of doing business in the country such as the basic requirement and standard procedure for the establishment of a corporation, partnership or cooperative, and guides prospective investors in the application for licenses, registration and accreditation of specific business entities. THE NEW DOT INITIATIVE: DECLARATION OF 2011 TO 2020 AS DECADE OF THE BALIKBAYAN The Department of Tourism (DOT) is promoting and supporting the implementation of Proclamation No. 181 by President Benigno S. Aquino III declaring the years 2011 to 2016 as the Homecoming Years for Pinoys. Proclamation No. 181 and Republic Act No. 6768, as amended by RA 9174 or the Balikbayan Program, gives overseas Filipinos special privileges and benefits in recognition of their contributions to the growth of the Philippine economy in terms of foreign exchange inflow and remittances. As the overseas Filipino community continues to expand worldwide, the Proclamation also aims to boost the local tourism industry by attracting and encouraging the OFs to revisit the Philippines, reunite with their families and enjoy their homeland. DIRECTORY OF MIGRATION-RELATED GOVERNMENT AGENCIES AND CFO BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Commission on Filipinos Overseas Citigold Center, 1345 Pres. Quirino Avenue cor. Osmeña Highway (South Superhighway) Manila, Philippines 1007 Tel. No. : (632) Fax No.: (632) info@cfo.gov.ph Website: CFO Cebu Desk Causing-Lozada Building, Osmeña Boulevard corner MJ Cuenco Street, Cebu City, Philippines Telefax: (632) cfocebu@cfo.gov.ph CFOPRIMER 37

46 38 CFOPRIMER CFO SMEF-COW Tel. No. : (632) CFO NAIA Tel. No. : (632) Department of Foreign Affairs 2330 Roxas Boulevard Pasay City, Philippines Trunkline: (632) Website: For the contact information of Philippine embassies and consulates, see the link: Philippine Overseas Employment Administration Blas F. Ople Building, Ortigas Avenue corner EDSA Mandaluyong City, Philippines POEA Hotlines: (632) / info@poea.gov.ph Website: Overseas Workers Welfare Administration 7th St. corner FB Harrison, Pasay City, Philippines Telephone local 5401 Tel/Fax (632) , (632) Hotline (632) Mobile Phone: (63) admin.csd@owwa.gov.ph Website: National Reintegration Center for OFWs Ground Flr. Blas F. Ople Development Center cor. Solana and Victoria Sts., Intramuros, Manila, Philippines Website: Philippine Retirement Authority 29/F Citibank Tower, 8741 Paseo de Roxas Makati City, 1227, Philippines Tel. No. : (632) to 16; Fax No.: (632) ; inquiry@pra.gov.ph CFO BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS Department of Foreign Affairs 2330 Roxas Boulevard Pasay City, Philippines Trunkline: (632) Website:

47 Department of Trade and Industry BOI Building, 385 Industry and Investments Bldg. Sen. Gil Puyat Ave., Makati City, Philippines Tel. No.: (632) loc. 5512, Fax No.: (632) Website: Department of Education DepEd Complex, Meralco Ave. Pasig City, Philippines Tel. No.: (632) Telefax: (632) Website: Department of Labor and Employment General Luna St., Intramuros, Manila Tel. No.: (632) loc 707, , Fax No.: (632) Website: Department of Justice Padre Faura St., Ermita, Manila Tel. No.: (632) Fax No.: (632) Website: Department of Tourism DOT Building, T.M. Kalaw St., Rizal Park, Manila Tel. No.: (632) , Fax No.: (632) Website: National Commission for Culture and the Arts Intramuros, Manila Tel. No.: (632) Fax No.: (632) Website: Presidential Communications Operations Office New Building, Malacanang, Manila Tel. No.: (632) Fax No.: (632) Website: Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning 3/F New Executive Building, Jose P. Laurel St., Malacanang, Manila Tel. No.: (632) Fax No.: (632) Website: CFOPRIMER 39

48 DIRECTORY OF CFO PERSONNEL Trunkline : (+632) SECRETARY IMELDA M. NICOLAS Chairperson, Commission on Filipinos Overseas Tel. No.: ; Fax No.: imelda.nicolas@cfo.gov.ph USEC. MARY GRACE AMPIL TIRONA Executive Director, Commission on Filipinos Overseas Tel. No.: ; Fax No.: marygrace.tirona@cfo.gov.ph Direct Line Local Joan D.Cusi (02) Phillip C. Ting (02) Joanna Lyn S. Rodriguez (02) Jenna Carmela Zulueta (02) Graciel Antonett A. Paguinto (02) Merlin S. Espeso (02) Eileen Y. Aparis (02) ATTY. GOLDA MYRA R. ROMA Division Chief, Policy, Planning and Research Division (PPRD) Tel. No.: ; Fax No.: groma@cfo.gov.ph Direct Line Local Arianne S. Omaga (02) Janet B. Ramos (02) Edwin C. Pajares (02) Rodrigo V. Garcia, Jr. (02) Frencel Louie T. Tingga (02) Rosario Q. Tuaño (02) MS. MARITA DEL ROSARIO-APATTAD Officer-in-Charge, Projects Management Division (PMD) Tel. No.: ; Fax No.: CFOPRIMER